The IIM Bangalore Interview Question That Catches Many Off Guard - Invention vs. Discovery

Can you explain the difference between an invention and a discovery?

What Is a Discovery?

A discovery is when you find something that already existed in nature, and no one knew it was there!
It’s about uncovering what has been hidden all along.
Examples:

• Isaac Newton discovers gravity
• Alexander Fleming discovers penicillin
• Watson and Crick discover the structure of DNA

These things were always there; nature was just patiently awaiting recognition.

What Is an Invention? Invention is the process of humans creating something new, that has never existed before.
It’s about constructing the future with human thought and creativity.
Examples:

• Thomas Edison, invented the lightbulb
• The Wright brothers invented the airplane
• Steve Jobs and team invented the iPhone

Invention occurs when we combine existing knowledge into a new form.

The reason why this question was asked during the PI round at IIM Bangalore:

• Clarity of thought: Can you reason about fundamental reason about fundamental ideas logically?
• Presence of mind: : What do you do when presented a question you don't expect?
• Communication skills: Can you define complex ideas in a simplified way when prompted ?
• Depth versus Surface Thinking: Can you think beyond definitions and show real understanding ?

Here's a format that successful candidates often use:

Start with a clear, one-strand definition for each term
Add one relevant example of each
Finish with a succinct summary statement
Here is the Sample Answer:

"A discovery is when we find something that already exists in nature, like gravity or DNA. An invention, is creating something new, like the internet or the light bulb. The big difference is: discoveries help us understand the world and inventions help us change it."

Short. Smart. Memorable.